On Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 2:32 p.m., Santa Clara Police Department (SCPD) officers responded to the San Tomas Aquino Creek, south of Tasman Drive in Santa Clara, after receiving a report of a possible body in the creek.
After they arrived on scene, SCPD officers determined there was a body face down in the creek. The Santa Clara County Office of the Medical Examiner responded and later identified the deceased as Thomas Simpkins. SCPD Detectives continued to investigate this case and determined that Simpkins was last seen on February 8, 2026, at about 9:30 p.m., in the area of Pruneridge Avenue and Lawrence Expressway in Santa Clara. Simpkins was last seen wearing a black short sleeve shirt, blue jeans, and red/white/black basketball shoes. Detectives believe Simpkins walked away from the area and was last in the area of Homestead Road and Los Olivos Drive on February 9, 2026, at approximately 1:00 a.m.
The Santa Clara Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance with this investigation. Detectives are asking the public to check surveillance cameras on or around February 9, 2026, at 1:00 a.m. in area of Homestead Road and Los Olivos Drive and to contact the Santa Clara Police Department if they observe anyone matching the description or clothing worn by Simpkins.
This remains an open and active investigation. Santa Clara Police Department Detectives ask any witnesses or anyone with evidence and/or additional information to contact Detective Sergeant Bell at [email protected].
Alternatively, those who wish to remain nameless can leave a message on the SCPD Anonymous Tip Line at (408) 615-4TIP (4847).
Prepared by: Lieutenant Eric Lagergren
Public Information Officer (408) 615-4865
Incident: Death Investigation
Date of Occurrence: February 14, 2026
Time: 2:32 p.m.
Location: San Tomas Aquino Creek, south of Tasman Drive, Santa Clara, CA
Case Number: 2602140064
